Chery Riich G6 to shine at '09 Shanghai auto show

Chery Automobile unveiled two new high-end sub-brands in the run-up to the 2009 Shanghai Auto Show, part of the carmaker's plan to boost profitability and expand into overseas markets.

One of China's larger automakers, Chery added the Riich and Rely brands to its portfolio. The Riich badge will be used on more luxurious models, including the new G6 sedan. Chery said at least five models are planned under the Riich brand, including a sporty coupe and three compacts.

The Rely name will be used mainly on sport-utility vehicles and multipurpose vehicles.

Introducing the high-end models represents Chery's efforts to enter the higher market segments. It also paves the way for the automaker to drive into overseas markets as competition in the domestic market stiffens.

Chery aims to boost its total sales by 17 percent to 419,000 units this year, including 263,000 sold in China and 156,000 for export.

The first model, the Riich G6, rolled off the assembly line at a plant in Wuhu on Wednesday. Equipped with a 192-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 or a turbocharged 168-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, Chery said the car would be on par with the Audi A6L, the most popular business sedan in China.

"The (G6) will play a major role in expanding into the mid-to-high-class segment and compete with premier cars made by foreign rivals," Chery said in a statement.

The self-developed Riich G6 will sell between $26,000 and $32,000. It features double-wishbone suspension with adjustable shocks, bi-xenon headlamps, LED taillamps, a rearview back-up camera, power seats and more.

Chery said the Riich G-series will be followed by M-, X- and Z-series models.

Chery's new winged logo for the Riich brand resembles that of Bentley. Coincidence?